Music helps to make our lives merry and bright, especially during the holiday season. Here are five Christmas concerts on our must-see list for Birmingham, featuring performers who specialize in country soul, arena rock, bluegrass, a cappella and pop.

TAYLOR HICKS

Who: Country-soul singer, guitarist and harmonica player, playing Christmas classics plus songs made famous by the Doobie Brothers. Hicks, 47, a Hoover native, became a household name in 2006 when he won the crown on Season 5 of “American Idol.” He’s been performing ever since and released two singles earlier this year, “Porch Swing” and “Teach Me To Dance.”

When: Dec. 8 at 8 p.m.

Where: Lyric Theatre, 1800 Third Ave. North, Birmingham.